The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is implementing changes to US immigration fees starting January 1, 2026. These adjustments follow provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (HR-1), which mandates annual inflation-related updates. The fee changes will affect multiple visa categories, border processing services, and temporary admission programs.
These adjustments come as part of DHS’s ongoing efforts to ensure immigration-related costs reflect current economic conditions. The changes will impact applicants across the world, including parole seekers, EVUS users, and certain international travellers. Understanding these revisions is critical for planning travel and immigration processes.
US Immigration Fees: Annual Inflation Adjustments Under HR-1
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (HR-1) requires DHS to revise specific immigration fees every year. These updates follow the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) to account for inflation.
The annual revision affects:
-
Electronic Visa Update System (EVUS)
-
Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)
-
Parole processing fees
DHS has clarified that not all fees will change. The Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record fee remains at $30 for FY 2026. This consistency provides some stability for foreign travellers submitting arrival documentation at US ports of entry.
Parole Fees Increasing in 2026
Parole allows certain non-citizens temporary entry into the United States without obtaining a visa. It is granted only under specific humanitarian or public interest conditions.
Starting January 1, 2026, the parole fee will rise modestly from $1,000 to $1,020 (approximately Rs 90,300). This change affects applicants seeking temporary US admission through parole programs. While incremental, it reflects inflation adjustments mandated by HR-1.
Applicants using parole should plan ahead to account for the updated fee. Legal counsel can assist in preparing documentation to meet DHS requirements efficiently.
EVUS Fee Updates: Slight Increase for Chinese Visa Holders
The Electronic Visa Update System (EVUS) fee applies to Chinese nationals holding B-1/B-2 visas who must update travel information electronically.
DHS announced the EVUS fee will increase from $30 to $30.75 in FY 2026. Though a minor adjustment, this fee affects a specific category of travellers entering the United States.
EVUS updates ensure travelers’ information remains accurate, facilitating border clearance and compliance. Applicants should submit EVUS updates well in advance of travel to avoid delays.
ESTA Fees: Minimal Change, Limited Scope
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) fee will rise from $40 to $40.27, a $0.27 increase effective January 1, 2026. ESTA applies only to citizens of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries. ESTA fees are collected online, and authorizations are mandatory for VWP nationals before entering the US.
Form I-94 Fee Remains Unchanged
DHS confirmed the Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record fee remains at $30 for FY 2026. US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) provides the I-94 electronically to foreign visitors required to submit arrival or departure records.
The static fee ensures applicants who frequently enter the United States experience no unexpected increases for this processing. CBP emphasizes that electronic filing reduces administrative delays and enhances accuracy.
Long-Term Implications of Rising US Immigration Fees
These adjustments indicate a broader trend of gradually rising US immigration fees. Applicants should anticipate minor annual increases due to CPI-U adjustments.
Rising fees may impact:
-
Temporary visitors seeking parole
-
Chinese nationals updating B-1/B-2 visa information
-
VWP travellers applying for ESTA
-
Legal service costs for immigration assistance
Immigration planning must account for these updates. Legal professionals can provide guidance on fee structure, eligibility, and filing strategies to minimize delays and avoid unnecessary expenses.
Understanding the Legal Framework: HR-1 and Immigration Fees
HR-1, signed into law on July 4, 2025, introduced broad legislative changes, including mandatory fee adjustments. The statute sets minimum fees and requires annual revisions for subsequent fiscal years.
By linking immigration fees to the CPI-U, HR-1 ensures that fees reflect real-world economic changes. This process protects the government’s revenue while maintaining fairness for applicants.
The law also reinforces DHS’s authority to update fees without requiring new legislation annually. Applicants should monitor Federal Register notices for timely updates on fee changes.
Navigating Parole and Temporary Entry Costs
Parole applicants face one of the more significant fee increases in FY 2026. Understanding eligibility and required documentation is essential to prevent denial or delays.
Legal guidance ensures parole applications align with DHS criteria. Expert counsel can also advise on managing fee payments, timing submissions, and exploring alternative entry pathways when appropriate.
Visa Update Systems: EVUS Efficiency and Compliance
EVUS facilitates compliance for Chinese B-1/B-2 visa holders. The updated $30.75 fee reflects minor inflation adjustments.
Maintaining current EVUS records ensures faster processing at ports of entry. Incorrect or outdated information may trigger secondary inspections or entry delays.
Applicants should consult immigration attorneys to confirm eligibility for EVUS updates, understand documentation requirements, and manage fee payments efficiently.
ESTA and VWP: Minimal but Necessary Fees
Even minimal increases in ESTA fees signal the US government’s intent to maintain efficient entry systems for VWP countries. Though not affecting Indian travellers, ESTA changes illustrate DHS’s broader strategy for managing border security.
VWP applicants must secure ESTA authorizations before departure. Legal counsel can clarify submission timelines and provide guidance on avoiding processing errors.
Planning for Future US Immigration Fee Adjustments
US immigration fees will likely continue rising incrementally. Applicants can prepare by:
-
Reviewing official CBP and DHS notices annually
-
Budgeting for fee adjustments in travel plans
-
Consulting immigration professionals to optimize filing strategies
-
Monitoring long-term legislative changes impacting fee schedules
Advance planning minimizes disruptions and ensures timely compliance with all immigration requirements.
Expert Support Reduces Fee-Related Risks
Managing US immigration fees requires attention to detail. Missteps in application or payment can delay entry, incur penalties, or trigger additional scrutiny.
Professional immigration firms offer crucial support. Lawyers can verify fee schedules, manage documentation, and ensure timely submissions. Expert guidance from Maple Crest Immigration Law Firm is especially valuable for complex cases like parole requests or EVUS updates.
Transition Words Highlight Clear Guidance
Applicants should note that DHS updates come gradually but have real financial implications. Moreover, accurate fee submissions prevent unnecessary administrative hurdles. Furthermore, clear understanding of fee changes facilitates smoother immigration processes for families, workers, and travellers.
Conclusion: Proactive Management of US Immigration Fees
US immigration fees will rise in 2026 under HR-1’s provisions just as Parole, EVUS, and ESTA fees will experience inflation adjustments. However, Form I-94 fees remain stable.
To this effect, applicants should monitor Federal Register updates, plan budgets, and seek legal guidance to ensure smooth entry into the United States. Awareness and preparedness are critical to avoiding delays and unexpected costs.
Maple Crest Immigration Law Firm provides precise guidance on managing US immigration fees. Our team helps applicants navigate fee adjustments, understand eligibility, and submit accurate applications. Secure your US entry with confidence and expert support today.
